Species

Aucuba japonicaJapanese Aucuba

13 other cultivars

shrub

Bored Female Japanese Laurel

Aucuba japonica 'Bored Female'

The Story

Plant Bio

Aucuba japonica 'Bored Female' is an evergreen shrub known for its glossy, dark green, ovate leaves often marked with yellow or white variegation, and its small, inconspicuous flowers followed by bright red berries in winter.

This cultivar is distinguished by its particularly dense, variegated foliage and its resilience in shaded areas, making it an attractive and low-maintenance addition to woodland gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round greenery with shiny leaves, adding structure and privacy to gardens.

Drought tolerant once established; excellent for shaded areas.

Provides habitat and food for birds and beneficial insects.

SpeciesAucuba japonicaJapanese Aucuba

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

72 inches

Width

72 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate, drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Average to high

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

Japan, China, Korea

Toxicity

Berries are mildly toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Early spring – Late fall

In flower about 9 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a shaded or partially shaded location.
Tuck young plants into well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote roots.
Water consistently during the first growing season.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained, fertile soil and provide protection from harsh winter winds.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Tuck seedlings into rich, moist soil 🌱
Mist cuttings to encourage rooting 🌱
Prune lightly after flowering to shape the shrub 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture 🌱

Don't

Don’t overwater in winter ❌
Avoid heavy pruning in late fall ❌
Don’t expose to harsh, drying winds ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen hedge for privacyShade garden borderStructural shrub accent

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Japanese maples Azaleas Camellias

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bored Female Japanese Laurel questions

What zones can Bored Female Japanese Laurel grow in?

Bored Female Japanese Laurel is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Bored Female Japanese Laurel deer resistant?

Yes — Bored Female Japanese Laurel is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Bored Female Japanese Laurel bloom?

Bored Female Japanese Laurel typically blooms in early spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Bored Female Japanese Laurel need full sun?

Bored Female Japanese Laurel does best in part shade.